A dissertation is something you will be expected to write in the final year of your academic course. It is a kind of research project which you will have to write to display the knowledge you have gleaned in the course of your study of the particular discipline.

Almost all courses require you to submit a dissertation in your final year. In the writing of a dissertation you are to choose a particular topic and produce a written piece of work.

The student has to choose a method of study and thoroughly research on their chosen topic and finally write, what is termed as a literature review. All the findings of your research as well as the conclusion you have drawn are to be included in this piece of written work.

Key factors of a successful dissertation

There are mainly five key factors that come into play while one is trying to write a successful dissertation.

The topic

The topic forms a key factor in writing of a dissertation. It is the first task you must embark on. When you are informed about the scope of your dissertation you must immediately start thinking of a topic. Your topic has to deal with a specific part of the scope that you are assigned. Successful dissertation topics are the ones where the student tries to write on a topic that will contribute to the scope. It must be aimed towards solving a specific problem that is being faced in your assigned scope. Alternately you can take up one dominant issue and present an argument on that issue in your dissertation. Rework your topic till you have attained one your supervisor approves of.

Research

After you have decided on a topic, you must start your research work. The research will likely take a long time, so start as early as possible. The quali5y of your research will determine the kind of dissertation you are going to produce. It is a wise idea to plan the method in which you will conduct the research. Make a list of the books and resources that you will require for the research. Try to obtain them as soon as possible. Always make allowance for things that might go wrong. Keep alternate sources in case you are not able to access the chosen source. You should have an extensive reading list.

Structure

After you have completed your research work, you must organize your dissertation into a framework or structure. The most common type of framework would include:

Title page- here you are to write the title of your research, course, date and university.

Abstract- a brief outline of the dissertation.

Acknowledgements- names of people who have helped you.

Contents- list the chapters, sub sections with page numbers.

Figures- if you have any necessary figures that need to be put

Your dissertation must have an introduction, a body where you are to present the main content, a conclusion that will tie all loose ends. It must also have a bibliography. MyDissertations is a trusted company ready to help you.

Content and style

The work for most part should be original. You are expected to provide ample amount of examples and data to support your arguments. The style should be analytical and academic. The language should be formal and concise. Your work should show that you have researched and acquired an insight into the topic. Avoid being vague. Your paper should be free of spelling and grammatical errors. Double check facts and figures.

Reference

It is important that your sources should be properly mentioned in the bibliography. You can be accused of plagiarism if you don’t acknowledge your sources. You should ask your supervisor about the kind of referencing you are expected to do. More reference indicates more reading.

Useful links

Check these handpicked academic resources for more dissertation writing tips and tutorials.